This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Welcome to a recipe that will elevate your salsa game—Small Batch Cucumber Salsa. Imagine crisp cucumbers mingling with sweet red bell peppers, fresh herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette that perfectly marries all the flavors together. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious, versatile salsa ready in no time.
Cucumber salsa is the ideal companion for homemade Tortilla Chips, to serve alongside Chicken Tacos, Fish Tacos, Baked Chicken Thighs, and buttery Baked Shrimp.
Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Salsa Recipe
- Easy to Make: No complicated steps here—chop, mix, and enjoy!
- Versatility: Perfect for tortilla chips, grilled chicken, and seafood.
- Flavor Balance: The tangy vinaigrette harmonizes with the fresh, crisp veggies.
- Small Batch Friendly: Ideal for a quick snack or a small gathering.
- Doubles Well: Need more? Simply double the ingredients to cater to a larger crowd.
RELATED: Best Single Serving Summer Recipes
Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this salsa recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder.
- Cucumbers: A medium-sized cucumber gives you about 1 1/2 cups when chopped. Regular or English cucumbers work well, offering a crisp, refreshing base for the salsa. If you’ve got leftover cucumbers, consider using them in Tabbouleh, a Shrimp Quinoa Bowl, Chicken Shawarma, a small batch of Tzatziki Sauce, or serve them as part of a mini Smoked Salmon Platter.
- Onion: Red onions bring a mild, slightly sweet flavor. They’re less overpowering compared to other onion varieties, making them a great choice for fresh salsa. Use any leftover red onions to make a small batch of Pickled Onions.
- Bell pepper: These peppers contribute extra crunch and a pop of color. You can go with red for sweetness or try yellow and orange for a vibrant twist. Extra bell peppers can be used to make Kung Pao Chicken or a small batch of Crab Cakes.
- Cilantro: Not everyone’s cup of tea, so if you’re cilantro-averse, fresh parsley is a fantastic substitute. It keeps the salsa green and fresh without the polarizing flavor.
- Garlic: A single clove adds just the right amount of zing. Freshly minced garlic is key to getting that authentic flavor kick.
- Jalapeños: Optional but recommended for those who like a little heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to omit. Leftover jalapeños can be used to make a small batch of Jalepeño Poppers or added to a Mexican Street Corn Salad.
- Lime juice: Fresh is best for a lively citrus punch, but bottled lime juice can be a quick and convenient alternative. Use leftover lime juice to make a single serving, sweet Key Lime Pie!
- Olive oil: Extra virgin is my top pick due to its full-bodied flavor and nutritional richness. However, light olive oil works if you prefer something less robust.
- Salt and black pepper: These are your flavor enhancers. A pinch or two of each brings out the natural goodness of all the other ingredients.
Recipe Variations
Don’t be afraid to switch things up with this flexible salsa recipe. Here are a few ideas to add your personal touch.
- Mango Salsa: Swap out red bell peppers for diced mango for a tropical twist.
- Avocado Salsa: Add diced avocado for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Herb Exchange: Replace cilantro with fresh basil or mint for a different herbal note.
Check out our other Single Serving Salad ideas!
How To Make Cucumber Salsa
These step-by-step photos and instructions help you visualize how to make a small batch of cucumber salsa. See the recipe below for ingredient amounts and full recipe instructions.
- Mix the chopped cucumber, red onion, red pepper, cilantro, garlic, and jalapeños in a medium-sized bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly.
RELATED: 4 Crustless Quiche Recipes That Are So Tasty, You Won’t Even Miss The Crust
Expert Tips
- Mild Heat Option: If you’re not a fan of spicy foods, simply leave out the jalapeños to make a milder version of this cucumber salsa.
- Cilantro Substitute: If cilantro isn’t your thing, fresh parsley is an excellent alternative that still keeps the salsa vibrant and green.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This cucumber salsa can easily be prepared in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve, making it a convenient choice for quick snacks or last-minute gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this vibrant, delicious salsa, the possibilities are truly endless. Here are some creative ways to incorporate it into your meals.
- Taco Topping: Elevate your Shrimp Tacos with a spoonful of cucumber salsa.
- With a Protein: Pair this cucumber salsa with baked Chicken Tenders or Chicken Nuggets for a lighter, yet flavorful meal. These proteins complement the salsa’s fresh, crisp ingredients, creating a balanced and satisfying dish.
- Dip Duo: Pair it with a bowl of guacamole for a double dipping delight.
Frequently Asked Questions
To keep your cucumber salsa fresh, store it covered in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 4 days.
Yes, it tastes even better when the flavors have time to mingle.
Not recommended. The high water content in cucumbers doesn’t freeze well.
The choice to peel or not peel the cucumber is all yours. Personally, I like to peel it when creating this salsa recipe.
That’s up to you! Add or omit jalapeño as you like.
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Explore More Small Batch Dip Recipes To Compliment Your Meal
Looking for more inspiration? Check out these additional small batch dip recipes that are just as quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion.
Ways To Use Leftover Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder or you might like to consider using them in any of these single serving and small batch recipes:
If you would like information on the cooking and baking dishes I use in our “recipes for one”, please visit our FAQ page.
For examples of the dishes used at One Dish Kitchen, please visit our Store page.
If you’ve tried this cucumber salsa or any recipe on One Dish Kitchen please let me know how you liked it by rating the recipe and telling me about it in the comment section below.
If you take a picture please tag us on Instagram (@onedishkitchen) we’d love to see it!
Small Batch Cucumber Salsa
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups peeled and chopped cucumbers (1 medium cucumber)
- ¼ cup chopped red onion
- ½ cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped jalapeños
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
For the vinaigrette
- 1 ½ tablespoons lime juice
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
Instructions
- Mix the chopped cucumber, red onion, red pepper, garlic, jalapeños, and cilantro in a medium-sized bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly.
Notes
- Mild Heat Option: If you’re not a fan of spicy foods, simply leave out the jalapeños to make a milder version of this cucumber salsa.
- Cilantro Substitute: If cilantro isn’t your thing, fresh parsley is an excellent alternative that still keeps the salsa vibrant and green.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This cucumber salsa can easily be prepared in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve, making it a convenient choice for quick snacks or last-minute gatherings.
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
I have made this twice. I use it as a side salad. It is good.
This is my go to recipe! I can eat this with tortilla chips as a meal. Definitely a crowd pleaser- triple or quadruple the recipe. Honestly will be one of the 1st things gone. Also great mixed with pasta.